Energy

The future energy system must be safe, affordable and environmentally friendly. In the RFA Energy, solutions are developed to support this transformation. To this end, the share of renewable energies must be increased, the use of energy must be more efficient and the entire energy system must be optimised in a systemic approach. The greatest challenges of the coming years will be to simultaneously decarbonise the energy system and meet the demand for electricity in a sustainable manner despite the phasing out of nuclear energy and the increase in electromobility.

Empa's research includes the development of new materials and systems for the supply, conversion and storage of energy, the modelling of the energy system and the demonstration of new concepts in research and technology transfer platforms (RTTPs). Evaluation of the viability of the new solutions by LCA is an integral part of our research. The RFA energy is closely linked to other RFA's. Thin-film technologies based on RFA Nanostructured Materials play an important role in new PV and battery concepts, the reduction of the energy demand of the building and mobility sector and their switch to renewable energy are addressed in the RFA's Sustainable Built Environment and Natural Resources-sources and Pollutants.